Warren T. Johnson, DDS, Murfreesboro, Tenn, recently awarded college scholarships to six of his orthodontic patients in the area who excelled in grade point average, ACT scores, and participation in community service. In order to be eligible for the 2010 college scholarships, patients submitted an essay describing their career goals and greatest accomplishments thus far in their young lives and plan to enter college in the fall.

Johnson Orthodontics has offered the scholarship program toorthodontic patients since 2002. "The goal of our scholarship program isto help our families offset the rising cost of college expenses,especially in this economy," Johnson said

In past years, Johnson has given four $500 college scholarships each year to patients who have completed orthodontic treatment in his practice. This year, there were so many applicants that he and his staff decided to increase the number of scholarships awarded to six.

"This is a great way to give back to our patients," Johnson said. "Many students today, in one form or another, find the time in their busy schedules to donate their efforts to their community as well as maintain good grades. It is an amazing juggling act kids undergo today. We feel our orthodontic college scholarship program acknowledges our patient’s efforts to advance themselves as well as contribute to the community."